Acoustically stealthy soft-bodied uuv propulsion system

Abstract

An acoustically stealthy, soft-bodied underwater propulsion system includes a central chord member and a series of successive muscle layers each having a skeletal mechanism and a set of actuators. Each skeletal mechanism includes a central vertebra, two or more actuator arms extending radially outward from the central vertebra and disposed axially symmetrically about the central chord member, and an actuator plate extending from a radially outward end of each actuator arm and oriented substantially transverse to the actuator arm. Each actuator is situated between an actuator plate from a first muscle layer of the series and a second muscle layer of the series.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 597,675 filed Dec. 12, 2017, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to underwater vehicles, and more particularly to biomimetic underwater vehicles.BACKGROUND[0003]Soft robotics and electro-active polymers are emerging fields that could revolutionize autonomous undersea platforms. Cutting-edge Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) speed, range, and stealth are limited by:[0004]1. Noisy and inefficient propulsion mechanisms such as propellers and rotating machinery that produce more easily detected ‘tonal’ noise.[0005]2. Suboptimal hydrodynamics and propulsion modes that limit the speed at which acoustic measurements can be taken, in addition to limiting endurance and consequently survey area.[0006]3. Structural impedance mismatch due to the use of syntactic foam and hollow pressure vessels that efficiently reflect ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a new type of soft robot that can mimic the movements and forms of natural organisms, such as fish and seals, to achieve high efficiency and speed while also being flexible and durable. The robot uses special polymers that can change shape when electrical current or temperature changes are applied. This allows it to move without needing rigid bearings or sliding parts, making it quieter and more energy-efficient. The robot can also be designed to be transparent to sound waves, making it a useful tool for detecting and measuring the movement of marine organisms. Overall, this patent presents a new technology that allows for the creation of fast, flexible, and durable robots that can mimic the natural movements of organisms to achieve high efficiency and speed.

Problems solved by technology

However, very little work has been performed on replicating the structural efficiencies of internal propulsive structures (musculature) or energy recovery systems (elastic ligaments) employed by pelagic fishes, let alone the integration of these components into a fully functional system.

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